Christian Bale 'overshadows' Hollywood

Christian Bale believes he is such a good actor he can "overshadow" his movies.

The 'American Psycho' star is so dedicated to his art he goes to extreme lengths to get into character - he shed 50lbs to play a dying insomniac in 2004's 'The Machinist' - and worries this may detract from the film itself.

Bale said: "Sometimes I think that what I do for a part can overshadow the movie itself.

"I don't want that. I just want to be that character, whatever it takes."

The 33-year-old Welsh actor - who made an award-winning Hollywood debut aged just 12 in 'Empire of the Sun' - next appears in cowboy film '3:10 to Yuma' alongside Russell Crowe.

Bale confessed he was terrified of meeting the Australian actor who is famous for his volatile temper.

Bale revealed: "I'd heard the stories. So I sort of prepared myself for the first time we'd meet. I wanted to feel him out.

"I see him coming up on the horizon, which I thought was fitting, and I'm bracing a little. And he turns out to be the nicest, easiest-going guy.

"Some stars want to dominate every scene. Russell gives you space to do your thing, which I respect."